Things To Do in Vilnius in Winter 2027: Best Events and Festivals
Looking for the best things to do in Vilnius in winter 2027? Here you can find full guide from local experts for winter 2027 covers December 2026, January 2027 and February 2027. The season begins with Christmas markets, lights and festive traditions. January brings some of the city’s strongest cultural events. February combines contemporary dance with traditional and national celebrations. Here are the best and full Things To Do in Vilnius in Winter 2027 guide to plan your trip around.

Things To Do in Vilnius in December 2026
December is the heart of the festive season. Cathedral Square and the Old Town become the centre of Christmas activities.
Vilnius Christmas Market
When: Until 27 December 2026
Where: Cathedral Square
The Vilnius Christmas Market is the centerpiece of the festive season. Wooden stalls surround the city’s main Christmas tree. Visitors can find seasonal food, warm drinks, handmade gifts and festive souvenirs. The market’s central location makes it easy to combine with an Old Town walk. Visit after sunset for the strongest Christmas atmosphere.

Vilnius Christmas Run
When: 5 December 2026
Where: Central Vilnius
The annual Christmas Run fills the city centre with runners wearing festive costumes. Santa hats, Christmas accessories and colourful outfits make the event much less serious than a typical road race. Visitors can participate or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

The Slowest Christmas Marathon
When: 12–13 December 2026
Where: Vilnius Old Town
This is a Christmas marathon with one unusual rule: there is no need to hurry. Participants choose routes of 3, 10, 21 or 42.195 kilometres. Instead of chasing a personal record, they explore Christmas stops, courtyards and quieter Old Town streets. The route can include festive food, small challenges and unusual corners of the city. It is one of the most original Christmas events in Vilnius in 2026.

Design Square
When: 15–20 December 2026
Where: Vilnius
Looking for Lithuanian Christmas gifts?Design Square brings local designers and makers together before Christmas. Visitors can discover fashion, accessories, design objects and handmade products. It is a good alternative to standard tourist souvenirs.

New Year’s Eve at Cathedral Square
When: 31 December 2026
Where: Cathedral Square and Bell Tower
The year ends in the centre of Vilnius. New Year’s Eve celebrations take place around Cathedral Square and the Bell Tower. A special visual projection is planned as part of the programme. Arrive early because the area becomes busy before midnight.

Things To Do in Vilnius in December 2026: Vilnius Relax Local Experts Recommendations
Visiting Vilnius this December 2026? Don’t let the gloomy, snowless weather slow you down! The local experts at Vilnius Relax have you covered. Warm up with cozy mead and cheese tastings, or capture the holiday spirit with a Christmas photoshoot. Craving action? Feel the thrill with our rally racing, quad biking, and buggy tours. Finally, experience the festive lights on a guided Vilnius walking tour or take a magical day trip to Trakai Castle. Make your winter unforgettable!
Things To Do in Vilnius in January 2027
January does not mean the end of winter events. Some Christmas attractions continue, while the second half of the month brings major film and light festivals.
Final Days of the Christmas Tree and Carousel
When: Until 6 January 2027
Where: Cathedral Square
The Vilnius Christmas tree remains in Cathedral Square until 6 January. The festive carousel continues until the same date.
This gives early-January visitors a final opportunity to experience the city’s Christmas atmosphere. The main Christmas Market has already closed, so the centre feels calmer.

Ride the Christmas Train
When: Until 3 January 2027
Where: Vilnius Old Town
Families visiting during the first days of January can still ride the Christmas Train. The route passes through decorated streets in the historic centre. It is especially enjoyable after dark.

Skate at Vilnius Ice
When: Until 25 January 2027
Where: Town Hall Square
The open-air ice rink remains in the heart of the Old Town throughout most of January. It is one of the easiest winter activities to combine with sightseeing. Skate first, then continue to a nearby café or restaurant.

Vilnius Short Film Festival
When: 20–26 January 2027
Where: Vilnius cinemas
The Vilnius Short Film Festival celebrates its 20th edition in 2027. The programme includes international and Lithuanian short films. Expect fiction, documentaries, animation and experimental cinema. It is an excellent indoor event during one of the coldest months of the year.

Vilnius Light Festival
When: 22–24 January 2027
Where: Vilnius Old Town and city centre
Price: Free
The Vilnius Light Festival is the major January event. Artists transform streets, squares, façades and courtyards with light installations and digital art. The festival celebrates Vilnius’ birthday. The route encourages visitors to discover both famous landmarks and lesser-known Old Town spaces. Wear warm shoes and plan several hours for exploring.

Things To Do in Vilnius in January 2027: Vilnius Relax Local Experts Recommendations
Heading to Vilnius in January 2027? Enjoy the crisp snow with recommendations from local experts at Vilnius Relax! Experience Lithuania’s top winter activities: feel the speed on an exhilarating snowmobile ride, or embark on a memorable dog sledding adventure. Don’t miss these essential winter highlights!
Things To Do in Vilnius in February 2027
February combines contemporary culture with important Lithuanian traditions. The programme is currently less complete than December and January, so additional events are likely to be announced later.
New Baltic Dance
When: From 7 February 2027
Where: Various Vilnius venues
New Baltic Dance is one of the city’s major contemporary dance festivals. For more than two decades, it has brought Lithuanian and international dance creators together. Expect contemporary performances, premieres and experimental work. The festival continues into early March.

Celebrate Užgavėnės
When: 9 February 2027
Where: Vilnius
Detailed programme: TBC Užgavėnės is Lithuania’s traditional farewell to winter. Expect masks, pancakes, music and playful attempts to chase winter away. Vilnius traditionally hosts local community and cultural celebrations. The detailed 2027 city programme will be announced closer to February.

Day of the Restoration of the State of Lithuania
When: 16 February 2027
Where: Various locations in Vilnius
16 February is one of the most important dates in Lithuania’s national calendar. It commemorates the restoration of Lithuania’s independent state in 1918. Vilnius hosts official ceremonies, concerts and cultural activities. Lithuanian flags appear throughout the city. For visitors interested in history, this is one of the most meaningful winter dates.

SU-MENĖK Contemporary Art Weekends
When: Expected throughout February 2027
Exact dates: TBC
SU-MENĖK has become one of Vilnius’ most interesting winter art traditions. During previous editions, around 50 museums, galleries and independent art spaces joined the programme over five weekends. Special exhibitions, tours, workshops and artist meetings are usually organised throughout the city. A dedicated free bus route has also connected participating cultural spaces. The 2027 dates have not yet been announced, but the initiative traditionally takes place during February weekends. For art lovers, it is one of the strongest events to watch when planning a February trip to Vilnius.

Plan Your Winter 2027 Trip to Vilnius
Vilnius Relax can help turn a winter weekend into a complete local experience. We organise private tours, transfers, seasonal activities and tailor-made programmes. Tell us your dates, group size and interests. We can build a personalised trip around the best things to do in Vilnius in winter 2027. Contact Vilnius Relax for a free consultation.
